Education Program

Having grown over the past few decades, PCMS’ Education Program has evolved to serve audiences of all ages. Amassing nearly the same number of events as our main concert series, it supports our mission of bringing great music to all people in Philadelphia and fostering community around the shared experience. No matter their experience or entry-point to chamber music—a child’s first exposure, a student’s one-on-one interaction with an artist, or the impact on a long-time patron—each facet of our Program seeks to inspire all people, building classical music audiences now and for the future.

We are grateful for the support we receive through the Lois and Julian Brodsky Music Education Fund; the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; the Cassett, Connelly, Dolfinger-McMahon, and Presser Foundations; the Hirsig Family Fund; and countless donors.

Free children’s concerts introduce the next generation to chamber music through our partnership with the Free Library of Philadelphia. ECCO, Time for Three, the Dalí String Quartet, and the Chestnut Brass Quintet have engage with over 300 students from schools across the city each year.

"The students had a great time and it was a new experience for them. One of my 7th grade students actually surprised me when she said that she had never heard of Beethoven. This was a much needed field trip for them. Thank you so much again for making it possible to give my students this experience." — Tanya L. Powell

In-school master classes and seminars give students the opportunity to work directly with internationally respected musicians. For many students, master classes are the first entry into a world of diverse ideas, offering insights into other interpretations, specifics on technique and historical and cultural context.

"The opportunity to perform for these visiting artists and open a direct channel of communication to receive musical feedback and constructive advice has been invaluable. Their clear perspective on ensemble skills and deep exploration into the depths of the chamber music were most impactful to me and my colleagues." — Simon Housner

In addition, our unlimited concert passes offer students and young friends the opportunity to attend frequently and teachers are welcome to bring students to concerts and open rehearsals for free. Please contact Erik Petersons, Education and Outreach Director, at [email protected] for more information.

"The rehearsal was a glimpse into the professional music world, and a good one at that. I can appreciate their comments and techniques as a string player, and being on stage was out of this world! I heard so many girls saying how it was their favorite event this year, and what a thrilling experience it was. Their energy and enthusiasm is something rare and exclusive. Thanks so much for letting us see that!" — Addie Olsen

Pre-concert lectures led by respected musical scholars and composers provide valuable insight and perspective on the music for our audience at 25 concerts each season. These relationships with leading authorities in the field of chamber music bring a depth to our programming that goes beyond program notes.